Get to know more about British moths and learn how to correctly identify them.
Comprising of over 2 thousand species in Great Britain alone, moths (Lepidoptera) play a vital role in our ecosystem and are key indicators of climate change and the health of the environment.
This beginners course will introduce the subject of British moths in a practical and enjoyable way. It will highlight their beauty and diversity and introduce you to a selection of local and migratory species. This course will provide an introduction to their ecology, monitoring techniques and how to correctly identify different species of moth. During the course, you will have the opportunity to set a moth trap allowing you to discover a diverse range of species, including some rare finds.
Your course will take place within the South Devon Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty close to field sites in Dartmoor National Park and urban centres in Plymouth and Torbay.
Please Note: There is no accommodation provided with this course.*
*Please note our Slapton Centre is at capacity during the run of this course and is unable to take anymore accommodation bookings. If you are looking for accommodation during the course, please look at local B&B options in the area.
Who Should Attend?
Nature enthusiasts, Students, Rangers, Early career consultants and ecologists.
Knowledge Level
Beginner. Level descriptors can be found on the following webpage: Framework and Course Level Descriptors
Prior Knowledge
No existing knowledge or experience is needed for this course. Just a willingness to explore and learn.
This course will include:
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- An introduction to migratory and resident moths and the role they play in the ecosystem
- Help and advice on ways of observing and recording moths using light sampling techniques
- Practical workshops to sharpen identification skills
By the end of the course, you will be able to:
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- Confidently identify a range of local and migratory moths
- Explain the ecology of different species
- Understand how to observe and monitor moths
- Share this knowledge with friends, family, and fellow volunteers
The course gives you the opportunity to immerse yourself in a new subject and acquire novel skills. Our fantastic tutor will combine the use of classroom-led learning and outside learning opportunities to give individuals the skills and confidence to progress their learning.
- See the ‘Example Timetable’ and ‘What’s Included’ sections below for more information about this course.
- Upon booking, you will need to provide individual details of all attendees
- Please email [email protected] if you have any questions.
Group Bookings Made Easy
If you have a group of 10 or more individuals wanting to complete one of our courses, our team are available to discuss your options – from discounts to private team courses.
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- Discounted rates
- Privately run courses for your group
- Bespoke courses developed specifically for your needs
If we are unable reach viable numbers for this course, we will inform you of the course cancellation 14 days prior to the course run. We would recommend when purchasing accommodation and/or travel you should take out your own insurance.
Tutor: David Brown
David Brown is the Warwickshire County Recorder for Lepidoptera and the author of The Larger Moths of Warwickshire. He has led courses at FSC Centres over a number of years. A lecturer at Birmingham and Warwick Universities Extramural and Open Studies departments for the past 20 years, he is an active field entomologist.Book with Confidence
We understand the difficulties of making plans in the current situation when guidelines continue to change, and insurance conditions are being tightened. In response, we will continue to offer additional flexibility. Find out more here
Example Timetable
Example Timetable
This timetable is subject to change but should give a clear outline of what to expect
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- If you have booked accommodation and evening meal, please arrive at 6pm on Friday evening. For those that haven't booked a meal, please arrive in time for the course to start promptly at 7.30pm on Friday evening.
- The course will end at 4:00pm on Sunday.
Day 1
| 7:30pm - 9pm | Introductions and classroom session covering:
|
Please note accommodation, refreshments and an evening meal are not included
Day 2
| 9:00am | Checking moth traps |
| 12:00pm | Lunch – not provided |
| 1:00pm | Classroom session covering:
|
| 3:00pm | Break – refreshments and evening meal not provided |
| 7:00pm | Field demonstration – Setting moth traps |
Please note accommodation, refreshments and an evening meal are not included
Day 3
| 9:00am | Checking moth traps |
| 12:00pm | Lunch – not provided |
| 1:00pm | Classroom session covering:
|
| 3:00pm | Recap and final questions |
| 4:00pm | End of course |
Please note accommodation, refreshments and an evening meal are not included
What's Included
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Expert Tuition
What’s included?
The course has been carefully created by expert tutors and educators to help you build your knowledge and apply it within the field surrounded by like-minded individuals.
The course includes:
- Classroom learning covering the theory of the species
- Field excursions to apply new knowledge
- Expert tuition for which the Field Studies Council is renowned
- Clear objectives and progression
You can rest assured that the absolute best content from an expert in environmental education will be provided. In choosing a Field Studies Council course, you will be joining thousands of people who learn with us each year.
Before You Attend
What to bring:
- Notebook and pencil
- Lunch and refreshments
- Sensible footwear and clothing for being outdoors
- Small bag to carry personal items
If you have them:
- Headtorch (preferably one with a red light setting)
There will be a member of staff with first aid training and access to a first aid kit on site. If you have special medical or access requirements, please let us know as soon as possible so we can plan the course.
Recommended Reading:
- Chris Manley British Moths and Butterflies - A Photographic Guide
- Roy Leverton Enjoying Moths
- Bernard Skinner Colour Identification Guide to the Moths of Great Britain
- P Waring, M Townend Concise Field Guide to Moths of the British Isles
Sorry this course has ended
